Colorado Avalanche Weekly Outlook: March 15-22, 2026
As the Colorado Avalanche gear up for a pivotal week, the buzz around the team is palpable, with several key storylines taking center stage.
Nazem Kadri Returns to Colorado
The Avalanche made waves at the trade deadline by bringing back veteran center Nazem Kadri from the Calgary Flames, who are covering 20% of his $7 million salary. Kadri, a familiar face from Colorado’s 2022 Stanley Cup triumph, adds depth and leadership. Head coach Jared Bednar wasted no time reuniting Kadri with Nathan MacKinnon, and the chemistry between the two is already evident.
MacKinnon’s Game Misconduct Overturned
Nathan MacKinnon recently found himself in the headlines after the NHL rescinded a major penalty and game misconduct from a March 10 clash with the Edmonton Oilers. MacKinnon collided with Oilers goalie Connor Ingram, but after review, the league agreed with Coach Bednar that MacKinnon was shoved into the crease by Darnell Nurse. This decision spares MacKinnon from an automatic suspension for future game misconducts this season.
MacKinnon’s Stellar Season & Team Performance
Despite a 3-1 setback against the Winnipeg Jets on March 14, the Avalanche are enjoying a remarkable season. MacKinnon is on an MVP-caliber pace, boasting 109 points (44 goals, 65 assists) in 64 games. Meanwhile, Martin Necas, an offseason acquisition, has been a revelation, tallying 80 points so far.
Promising Prospect Signing
Looking ahead, the Avalanche have secured a promising future by signing 23-year-old Swedish defenseman Gustav Stjernberg to a two-year entry-level contract. After a solid collegiate stint at Bowling Green State University, Stjernberg will finish this season with the AHL’s Colorado Eagles before his NHL contract kicks in for 2026-27.
Upcoming Avalanche Schedule
The Avalanche face a demanding four-game stretch this week. After a tough loss to the Jets, they aim to rebound during a two-game homestand before heading back on the road. A midweek clash with the Dallas Stars promises a thrilling Central Division showdown, as both teams vie for top positions in the Western Conference standings.
- Monday, March 16: vs. Pittsburgh Penguins at Ball Arena, 9:30 PM EDT
- Wednesday, March 18: vs. Dallas Stars at Ball Arena, 9:30 PM EDT
- Friday, March 20: @ Chicago Blackhawks at United Center, 8:30 PM EDT
- Sunday, March 22: @ Washington Capitals at Capital One Arena, 12:30 PM EDT
The Avalanche are set for a week of intense matchups, with plenty of opportunities to solidify their standing as a powerhouse in the league. Fans should buckle up for an exciting ride.